I was afraid to return from injury, admits Ronaldo

The Ballon d’Or holder was thrust back into the startng line-up in the win over Bayern Munich but says he felt ready after three weeks out

Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he was afraid to return in Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Bayern Munich, but insists he was fit enough to return to Champions League action.

The Portugal international has not featured since the Blancos‘ 3-0 home leg win over Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-final – exactly three weeks prior to his start at Santiago Bernabeu against the European champions.

He played a key part in Karim Benzema’s goal which allowed Carlo Ancelotti’s men to defeat die Roten 1-0 in the semi-final first leg and the Ballon d’Or holder was delighted with the result ahead of next Tuesday’s return at the Allianz Arena.

“I was afraid – it was my first match after three weeks out,” he told reporters after the game. “Some people didn’t want me to play and some people did. I felt well and ready for the next few games.

“One-nil is a good result. We have a good advantage and if we score next week it will be so difficult for them to qualify for the final.

“The second leg will be a tense match. We have a little advantage so let’s see if that is enough.”

Madrid will now temporarily turn their attention to La Liga, as they prepare to host Osasuna on Saturday as they look to close the gap to leaders Atletico Madrid.